At the north end of Independence Mall, the National Constitution Center makes a strong case for being the best starting point for any visit to Philadelphia's historic district. The building holds the original text of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights alongside a surprisingly engaging set of interactive exhibits that bring the founding debates to life. The centerpiece, "Freedom Rising," is a theatrical presentation that covers 225 years of constitutional history in eighteen minutes — far more stirring than it sounds.
The "Signers' Hall" contains life-size bronze statues of all 39 delegates who signed the Constitution, arranged as they were on the day of signing. You can walk among them and take the presidential oath of office on a replica Bible. The museum also hosts a rotating exhibition of original documents and runs excellent programming for all ages. Timed-entry tickets are recommended; the adjacent Independence Visitor Center is the place to pick them up.